Glaucoma Beverly Hills | Beverly Hills Institute of Ophthalmology

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma in Beverly Hills is a group of eye conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve, typically due to abnormally high pressure from fluid buildup within the eye. It is one of the leading causes of blindness among men and women over the age of 60. As there are no warning signs with many forms of glaucoma, it is essential to ensure you have regular yearly eye exams.

Who is a good candidate for glaucoma treatment?

Glaucoma is diagnosed through your medical history, a comprehensive eye exam, and diagnostic testing. The damage caused by glaucoma cannot be reversed, but early diagnosis and treatment can slow or prevent vision loss. Our Beverly Hills ophthalmologist may recommend eye drops, medications, or a surgical procedure to improve drainage and reduce the pressure in the eyes.

Happy woman after receiving treatment for her glaucoma.

Why choose Beverly Hills Institute of Ophthalmology for glaucoma treatment in Beverly Hills?

Our doctors and staff offer a personalized approach with a patient-first focus.
Our practice has always been ahead of the curve in offering the latest advancements in treating eye conditions, vision correction, and eye care.

What should I expect with glaucoma treatment?

The treatment options for glaucoma will reflect your unique condition. All treatments are geared toward lowering the pressure in the eye. Our surgeon may recommend drops, oral medications, or a combination of procedures, including:

Trabeculoplasty (laser therapy): In this procedure, the surgeon uses a small laser beam to clear clogged channels and improve drainage.
MIGS (minimally invasive glaucoma surgery): This procedure can be combined with cataract surgery. Your doctor can recommend the best minimally invasive technique for you.
Trabeculectomy (filtering eye surgery): This surgical technique involves creating an opening in the sclera (white of the eye) and removing a portion of the eye's meshwork.
Drainage tubes: A small tube shunt is inserted in the eye to drain away excess fluid and lower pressure.

What is recovery like after glaucoma surgery?

Recovery time after a glaucoma procedure varies based on the treatment and your natural speed of healing. Generally, you can expect to recover within three to six weeks. You will need the day of surgery and at least the following day to rest.

Avoid any strenuous activity, such as lifting, for your entire recovery period. You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure. You may not be able to drive for a week to two months after surgery.

Glaucoma FAQ

What causes glaucoma?

Glaucoma is caused by damage to the optic nerve, usually related to increased pressure in the eye. Although it is not fully understood what causes eye pressure to rise, scientists have identified related genes. The pressure becomes elevated when fluids that flow through the inside of the eye build up. Fluids can build up when overproduced or if the eye drainage system is not functioning as nature intended.

What are the risk factors for glaucoma?

Risk factors for this condition include:

Age-related for those over 60
Using corticosteroid medications (particularly eye drops) for too long
Extreme nearsightedness or farsightedness
Family history of glaucoma
More common in certain ethnic groups, including black, Asian, or Hispanic
Having a medical condition such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, or sickle cell anemia
Eye injuries and some types of eye surgery
Thinning corneas

Glaucomain Beverly Hills